2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500

Asking Price Range

Estimated MPG

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), also known as "sticker" price, is a recommended selling price that automakers give a new car that is above the invoice price paid by the dealer. It is a price that does not include any options that can be added to a particular car style. When shown as a range, the prices are starting MSRPs, without options, for multiple styles for that model.

This price range reflects for-sale prices on Cars.com for this particular make, model and year.

These city and highway gas mileage estimates are for the model's standard trim configurations. Where there are optional features, packages or equipment that result in higher gas mileage, those fuel-economy estimates are not included here.

Summary

By Mike Magda

PickupTrucks.com

November 4, 2008

Vehicle OverviewWhen it debuted for 2002, the Avalanche upset the trend of making more SUV-like pickups. Chevy simply made its popular Suburban into a pickup; it gave the Avalanche more versatility, but it didn't lose any of the SUV's inherent creature comforts. Perhaps the ultimate vehicular multitool, the Avalanche features a midgate that expands the cargo area into the passenger cab. By removing the midgate and folding down the second-row seat, the cargo floor extends from 5 feet, 3 inches long to more than 8 feet long. The cargo bed also features lockable, side-mounted storage. A locking tailgate and cargo cover increase the secured-storage options even more. The Avalanche is available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels and in two- and four-wheel drive.

New for 2009GM addressed fuel economy concerns as the markets shifted away from large vehicles. A six-speed automatic is now standard on all models, giving drivers two overdrive gears for better highway mileage. For most two-wheel-drive models, a 3.08:1 final-drive ratio lowers engine speed during cruising to improve fuel economy. Chevy also reached out to its luxury customers by enhancing the LTZ trim with more standard equipment, including heated and cooled 12-way power seats up front, Centerpoint Surround Bose speaker system, and new rear styling and hitch cover. Finally, the electronics were upgraded, including the latest generation of OnStar, hands-free Bluetooth connectivity and XM Satellite Radio with NavTraffic.

ExteriorThe Avalanche doesn't mind flaunting its split personality; it's not an SUV or a pickup, but rather both. It has the bold but familiar front-end styling found on Chevy's GMT900 products. Setting the Avalanche apart are its distinctive sails that connect the cab to the bed and emphasize the smooth roofline and exterior length. The only real problem with the design is rearward visibility. Parking and backing up in tight spots can be tough, so the available sensors and backup camera are invaluable to many owners.

17-inch wheels standard

Wraparound front bumper cover blends nicely with body

Available 22-inch chrome wheels developed with DUB magazine

Power-articulating running boards on LTZ models

InteriorIn addition to the LTZ upgrades for 2009, Chevy is enhancing the Luxury Package available on 2LT models by including Bose premium speakers, heated 10-way power seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Avalanche front seats are comfy and supportive. Overall, the interior is spacious, with generous storage in the center console. The interior's centerpiece is the fold-down rear seat and the removable midgate. The rear glass can be removed separately from the main midgate for an open-air effect.

Available rear-seat entertainment system plays DVDs and from iPods

Available touch-screen navigation system

New seat fabrics on LS and 1LT models

Titanium and Cashmere interiors now available on Z71 models

Under the Hood

Base engine in 4x2 model is a 320-horsepower, 5.3-liter V-8 with an iron block; rated at 340 pounds-feet of torque

310-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 with an aluminum block standard in early 4x4 models; rated at 335 pounds-feet of torque, E85 capable

All engines have Active Fuel Management to shut off cylinders for better fuel economy

SafetyOptional safety features include rain-sensing wiper system, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist and rearview camera. GM has loaded the Avalanche with plenty of advanced safety features as standard equipment. They include: